My name is Heidi Cooper and I would like to introduce myself to the city of New London. I am a Republican candidate running for the Board of Education in the upcoming election in November. I wanted to share my values, and what I seek to contribute if elected to the board.

My family and I have been residents of New London for the past six years, having relocated from the Boston area in 2005. I am 34 years old and my husband Jim and I pastor Lifehouse Church in Groton, along with our three young children. My children all attend New London elementary schools, and I see a great need for more parent involvement in our school system.

I believe a large part of academic success rests on parents being concerned about and directly involved in their child's education.

If elected, I would focus on seeing test scores raised, seeing funds used appropriately to best serve our students and teachers, and to help create a healthy, team-centered board.